Wednesday, December 04, 2013

Not everyone in the neighborhood knits or crochets, but for those who do, here is some sad news. Seeta Heeralal, owner of "Knit-A-Way', will be forced out of her current location at 398 Atlantic Avenue because of higher rent.

Seeta was just informed by her landlord in November that her monthly rent will increase from $3,000 to $9,000 in January. Any attempt to negotiate has failed so far. (In fairness, Seeta's landlord had lowered the rent from $4,700 to $3,000 during the recent downturn in the economy.)
According to Seeta, the landlord gave her till January 31st, 2014 to vacate. She hopes for just a bit more time. After ten years building a clientele at this location, she says: "My heart would break if I had to leave."

Seeta took over "The Knittery" from a former boss in 2004 and renamed the business "Knit-A-Way". At that time, it was the first yarn store in the area. Today, there are others, but Seeta points out that she took a chance at a time 'when no one wanted to come here."

Seeta is currently weighing her options and is looking at several other locations, but the rent is either too high or the space too small. She would appreciate any help or tips, so if anyone knows of a small 'affordable' storefront in the area, please contact Seeta here.

Update February 10, 2013

Good news. I just heard from Seeta. She found a new location for her store. Though it is not exactly close to her former location, it is wonderful to know that her store lives on.
As of February 15th , Knit-A-Way will be located at:
1970 Flatbush Avenue
(between Flatlands Avenue & Kings Highway
Brooklyn, NY 11234
Tel: 718-677-3305